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Lubiprostone: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Lubiprostone is a locally-acting chloride channel activator indicated for: Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) in adults — an established and more.

Forms:Capsule

About Lubiprostone

Indications of Lubiprostone

Lubiprostone is a locally-acting chloride channel activator indicated for:

  • Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) in adults — an established, FDA-approved indication supported by randomized controlled trials.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) in adult women (18 years and older) — an established, FDA-approved indication; efficacy in men has not been demonstrated.
  • Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) in adults with chronic non-cancer pain — an established, FDA-approved indication; efficacy has not been demonstrated in patients taking diphenylheptane opioids (e.g., methadone), likely due to methadone's distinct gastrointestinal effects.

Lubiprostone is not indicated for constipation caused by mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction, and it is not a first-line agent — it is generally used after lifestyle measures (fluid, fiber, exercise) and/or other laxatives have proven inadequate.

Dosage & Administration of Lubiprostone

General Administration

Lubiprostone should be taken orally, twice daily, with food and water, to reduce the likelihood of nausea. Capsules should be swallowed whole and not chewed.

IndicationAdult DoseFrequency
Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC)24 mcgTwice daily, with food
IBS-C (women ≥ 18 years)8 mcgTwice daily, with food
Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC)24 mcgTwice daily, with food

Hepatic Impairment

A reduced starting dose (e.g., 16 mcg twice daily for CIC or OIC, and 8 mcg once daily for IBS-C, adjusted per severity) may be considered in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment, based on prescribing information; individualize per clinical judgment.

Renal Impairment

No dedicated dose adjustment has been established; use with routine clinical monitoring.

Missed Dose

Take the next dose at the regular scheduled time; do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Side Effects of Lubiprostone

The most commonly reported adverse effects of Lubiprostone include:

  • Nausea (the most common side effect, especially with the first dose; taking Lubiprostone with food reduces this risk).
  • Diarrhea, which may occasionally be severe (see Precautions and Warnings).
  • Abdominal pain and abdominal distension.
  • Headache.
  • Flatulence.
  • Dyspnea (shortness of breath) — uncommon, typically occurs within an hour of the first dose, generally resolves within a few hours, but may recur with repeat dosing.

Seek prompt medical attention for severe or persistent diarrhea, signs of an allergic reaction, or chest tightness/breathing difficulty.

Contraindications of Lubiprostone

Lubiprostone is contraindicated in:

  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to Lubiprostone or any component of the formulation.
  • Patients with known or suspected mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction, given its prokinetic/secretory mechanism of action.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lubiprostone

What is Lubiprostone used for?

Lubiprostone is used to treat chronic idiopathic constipation in adults, irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) in adult women, and opioid-induced constipation in adults with chronic non-cancer pain. It works by increasing fluid secretion in the intestine to soften stool and promote bowel movements.

How should I take Lubiprostone?

Take Lubiprostone exactly as prescribed, usually twice daily, with food and a full glass of water. Swallow the capsule whole — do not crush or chew it. Taking it with food helps reduce nausea, the most common side effect.

What are the most common side effects of Lubiprostone?

The most common side effects of Lubiprostone are nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain or distension, and headache. Nausea is more likely if the medicine is taken on an empty stomach. Some people also experience temporary shortness of breath or chest tightness shortly after the first dose, which usually resolves within a few hours.

Who should not take Lubiprostone?

Lubiprostone should not be used by anyone with a known allergy to it, or by anyone with known or suspected mechanical bowel obstruction, since it can worsen that condition. Tell your physician about any history of bowel obstruction or major gastrointestinal surgery before starting Lubiprostone.

Can Lubiprostone be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Lubiprostone should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the baby, and only under a physician's guidance. It is not known whether Lubiprostone passes into breast milk, so a physician should be consulted to weigh the benefits of treatment against the risks before use while breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much Lubiprostone?

If you miss a dose, simply take your next dose at the regular scheduled time — do not double up. If you or someone else has taken more Lubiprostone than prescribed, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center, as overdose can cause increased nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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